Project 543 tells the story of unique spots across North Carolina we hope will become some of your favorite places. Why 543? Because that’s the number of miles from Manteo, on the coast, to Murphy, in the mountains, and is traditionally considered to be the width of our state. The entries in this project are in no particular order, and we’ll add to them each week. Check in often to find inspiration for your next trip, or start planning today at VisitNC.com.

What is Project 543?

Project 543 tells the story of unique spots across North Carolina we hope will become some of your favorite places. Why 543? Because that’s the number of miles from Manteo, on the coast, to Murphy, in the mountains, and is traditionally considered to be the width of our state. The entries in this project are in no particular order, and we’ll add to them each week. Check in often to find inspiration for your next trip, or start planning today at VisitNC.com.

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Take a bike tour that starts in the mountains and ends on the coast

Cycle North Carolina’s inaugural bicycle tour in 1999 treated participants to North Carolina’s first fully supported cross-state bike tour from Murphy in the mountains to Manteo on the coast. Over 500 riders participated in the first ride and the event has now grown to include more than 1,000 cyclists each year. Riders can enjoy shops, restaurants and local breweries near campsite or hotel stops along the way and can take part in activities throughout the trip such as Cycle NC-hosted yoga classes and massages. Though the start and finish lines and overnight stops change, the unique experience of traversing North Carolina by bike remains a must-do for cycling enthusiasts.